Support>SYNC>SYNC Updates>How do I format my flash drive to exFAT or FAT32 for SYNC updates?

How do I format my USB drive to exFAT or FAT32 for SYNC®* updates?

To perform a SYNC software update, the USB drive (also known as a flash or thumb drive) must be formatted properly based on the vehicle's SYNC version:

  • exFAT for SYNC 3
  • FAT32 for previous versions of SYNC

Note: SYNC 4 and SYNC 4A do not use a USB drive for updates. 

Formatting a USB Drive for a SYNC Update

Select your operating system from the drop-down options below:

PC Users With Windows 10

To format a USB drive for PC users with Windows 10:

  1. Insert the USB drive into your computer's USB port.
  2. Select Start (Windows Icon).
  3. Open File Explorer.
  4. Click on This PC.
  5. Right-click on your USB drive and select Format.
  6. Under File System, select FAT32 or exFAT.

PC Users Without Windows 10

To format a USB drive for PC users without Windows 10:

  1. Insert the USB drive into your computer's USB port.
  2. Open My Computer.
  3. Right-click on your USB drive and select Properties.
  4. Under File System, select FAT32 or exFAT.

Mac Users

To format a USB drive for Apple users:

  1. Insert the USB drive into your computer's USB port.
  2. Open Finder.

  3. Navigate to Applications and Utilities and click Disk Utility.

    Note: You can also select the Mac Launchpad in the Dock, and search for and select Disk Utility.  

  4. Select your flash drive.

  5. Click the Erase button on the top right of the screen.

    Note: This will permanently erase all current data stored on your flash drive. 

  6. Name your flash drive.
  7. Under Format, select FAT32 or exFAT.
  8. Select Master Boot Record as the formatting scheme. 

If you experience any issues when completing the steps above, please contact the Customer Relationship Centre by calling 1-800-565-3673 or by selecting our LIVE CHAT option.

Additional Information

How do I check for SYNC updates?

*Don't drive while distracted. Use voice-operated systems when possible; don't use handheld devices while driving. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.